Male birds tend to be more colorful than females. Therefore, they can be quite easy to spot. They also are the only mallards with a green head. Females tend to be less flamboyant.

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Steps

1

Look at the duck in question. Notice the patterns of coloration.

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2

Are you seeing colors? If so most likely you are seeing a male duck. The male Mallard has a metallic green head and ring on its neck.

3

Do you see a more muted variation? The female Mallard duck is completely brown.

4

Get a good reference book about birds. You will find photos or detailed colored drawings showing you the different looks of the respective genders of ducks.

5

Note that drakes have a raspy, whispering quack; while females are loud and clear.

6

Drakes have a curled sex feather on their tail (which might not be readily seen at a distance, however) that the females lack.

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